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Sash Windows Repair and Replacement Sash windows older than 20 years may have various issues, including draughts and rattles. They might also be inefficiently constructed to be insulated. A little attention can often bring them back to a top level of performance. First, scrape off the seal on the paint of the window stop with an utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash and take off any chains or cords. The hardware should be stored in a container with an identification label. Sealing Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings, however they do need maintenance and can be subject to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty and drafts. It is possible to minimize energy loss and increase the efficiency of sash windows by replacing the windows, repairing or sealing them. The gaps between sash frame are the main source of drafts. They can also trigger rattling and reduced sound-proofing. Sealing beads, specialty products and secondary glazing can be used to limit the air leakage within the shutter. A gap between the top or bottom of the sash and the jamb frame, is a common problem. This can result in moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood, and mould growth. Seal the gap with silicone, polyurethane, or foam sealant. Installing new sash runner or spring bronze may be required if a gap prevents windows from opening and shutting easily. These are a type of bronze that are stapled or nailed to the edges of the lower sash to prevent sideways rattle, and they are available at DIY stores. Tubular vinyl weather-stripping is an alternative option however it can tear and make a difference to the appearance of a window. When replacing sash runners it is essential to measure the window opening. It is recommended to take measurements from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline on the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can later be transferred to new runners, which will ensure the best fit and function of the window. In older structures there is a larger gap between the sash as well as the frame at the leading edge. It can be draught-proofed using a strip of V-strip which is self-adhesive. However it is crucial to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material. A piece of material should be cut to the length of the sash. There should be Hillingdon double glazing to allow for movement. It should be trimmed square and placed so that the ends are matched to the angle of the window sill. Use stainless steel screws as brass may be rusty. Also, make sure you use a high quality polyurethane or silicone glue. Refurbishment The sash is a beautiful historic feature in many homes. But despite their beauty, these windows are prone to a range of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaks are all common problems. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, defective frames, or rotten weights can all cause problems. If you encounter any of these issues, it is time to replace or repair your sash. Refurbishment can be a more costly alternative than replacing the sash itself, however, it can restore the look and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. It involves lining the meeting rail and sash box with traditional putty and repairing any rot-related damage. Re-painting of the timber frame is also included, as well as glazing using traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). It is also recommended to put in brush pile weather strip to minimize the noise of rattling. If you require a new sash the frame can be constructed from similar designs to the old frame and maintain your property's heritage style. This is particularly crucial for listed buildings, where any modifications to windows need planning permission. Check the metal tabs of the new window with those of the old sash prior installing it (see below). If they're different shapes, the new sash won't fit in the window frame slots. When a window is damaged it is crucial to decide between replacement or repair, because each type of work will require a different degree of expertise and cost. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it would be a better option. If the glass is only damaged in a tiny area or a sill is beginning to rot and needs to be repaired, then a repair will be better. Replacement While many homeowners are keen to keep their old sash windows in good working condition, deterioration could eventually cause problems such as rattles, draughts, or even broken glass. These issues typically lead to a replacement as the only logical solution. However, there are other ways to improve the sash windows beyond just replacing them, including installing draught proofing and secondary glazing. Take note of the severity of the issue. It might not be necessary or even necessary to replace windows. For example, a foggy glass issue is usually a problem within the sash and is usually able to be resolved without tearing out the entire frame. A weak seal can often be corrected with a few simple fixes rather than an expensive full-frame tear-out and replacement. Sash windows are a complicated design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to remedy some common problems like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires taking apart the window frame, which isn't a job the majority of homeowners would like to tackle themselves. Many homeowners opt to engage a professional for these reasons. A professional can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to current energy standards. This could include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glazing, to avoid heat loss through the window. It can also be helpful to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts. To begin a repair take out the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Next, loosen the staff bead and pull out the lower sash. Take the chains and cords from both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and remove them. Keep the hardware in a safe location. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using a blade made of putty. Reassemble the window, attach the hardware and then lubricate the pulley axles with silicone or Teflon spray. Reinstall the parting bead, and install the upper sash. Repair It is crucial for the homeowner to make a decision on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Although modern replacements offer a host of benefits however, the original features of an older home give personality and value to the home and are generally less expensive to repair than replacing them. Maintaining them in good shape can lower the energy cost. Sash windows are susceptible to rattles and drafts. This can lead to more expensive energy bills and can damage the frame and sash. Sash windows can be a challenge to open and close. The mechanism for sliding could become dislodged or draughty. It's best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist because they require extensive removal. But, with the right tools and knowledge it's possible to repair old windows with sash yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics: Getting the window to come apart begins by removing any security fittings that are in front of the lower sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Then, take out the sash at the bottom. Then, take the chains or cords on both sides and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Remove the sash stops (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. Pull the sash to reveal the balancing weight, which is a large iron cylinder or lead that is enclosed in a concealed cavity and held by a rope. To prevent the sash falling into the void, you must pierce it with a nail and sacrifice the weight. Once the sashes are free Clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint off the sash stops using a utility knife. After the sashes have been put returned to their original positions, you can attach the stops using nails that are small enough to avoid damaging the balancing weight. To reassemble the sash put the top sash into its track first, then the lower sash. Make sure the sash stoppers are properly aligned with the frame, and then reattach the beads that separate if required. Reattach the sash chains or cords and attach the sash pulleys.